Two key agreements aimed at ending global conflicts, brokered by President Donald Trump, are facing challenges and are at risk of collapsing. The deals, signed in the presence of Trump, were meant to halt fighting in eastern Congo and end the border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. However, fighting has surged in both regions, causing international alarm and prompting urgent calls to halt the renewed violence.
The agreement between Congo and Rwanda, signed in Washington, was hailed as a “historic” deal by the White House, following months-long peace efforts by the US and its partners. However, new deadly violence has erupted in Congo’s South Kivu region, blamed on the Rwandan-backed M23 militia group. The International Contact Group for the Great Lakes has expressed “profound concern” over the situation and urged the M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force to immediately halt their offensive operations.
Similarly, the ceasefire pact between Cambodia and Thailand, signed in Malaysia, has faltered, with fighting breaking out along their contested border. The US has expressed concern over the uptick in violence and has urged both sides to return to the deescalatory measures outlined in the agreement. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the protection of civilians.
The Trump administration has been working to ensure the full implementation of the recently signed agreements and restore stability on the ground. The president has repeatedly cited these agreements, along with several others, as proof of his success in ending conflicts. However, his efforts to halt the fighting between Russia and Ukraine have so far proven unsuccessful.
The developments have significant implications for regional stability and global peace efforts. The international community is watching closely, and the situation remains volatile. The US and other regional partners are working to uphold the commitments made and reinforce the ceasefire. The next steps will be crucial in determining the outcome of these agreements and the future of peace in these regions.